Prince-Regent Karel instituted this bronze medal on 30 January 1947.

It was awarded to those participating in the campaign in Abyssinia between 6 March and 3 July 1941.

The reverse mentions three places where battles were fought : SAIO, GAMBELA, and ASOSA. The heads of a native and a European soldier on the obverse symbolises the co-operation of natives and Europeans on the battlefield.